Mason Mount has been sent a "make or break" warning as Manchester United legend, Dimitar Berbatov, urged the midfielder to start "taking risks".
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Mount under scrutiny after disappointing first seasonHad trouble with form & fitnessBerbatov backed Mount to shine this campaignWHAT HAPPENED?
Mount made the high-profile move from Chelsea to United in the summer of 2023, with a transfer fee of £60 million ($76 million). However, his first season at United was marred by injuries and inconsistency, leading to widespread disappointment.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The former Chelsea star struggled to find his rhythm, with a persistent calf injury sidelining him for much of the campaign. Hence, his move to Manchester did not yield the immediate impact that many had hoped for, with his performances falling short of the high standards he had set during his time at Stamford Bridge.
WHAT BERBATOV SAID
Reflecting on Mount’s first season, Berbatov acknowledged the midfielder’s struggles but expressed confidence in his potential to bounce back.
In an interview with he said: "The first season was disappointing for him and something to forget. But he can learn from that and what he can learn is to get better. If you give him the opportunity he has to go out and give the best he can. He didn't manage to do that last season, unfortunately. But the talent and the quality are there. Everybody saw what he did at Chelsea, but he didn't produce it at Man United.”
The former striker also noted the competition Mount faces within the squad, particularly from Bruno Fernandes, who plays a similar role in the team. “Bruno Fernandes is a similar type of player, but it is a long season and there are a lot of games to be played, and they need competition. He can make a difference with the passes and his runs.”
DID YOU KNOW?
One of Berbatov’s key messages to Mount was the importance of taking responsibility and being brave on the pitch. He urged the midfielder to shed any hesitation or self-doubt that might have held him back during his first season at United.
“My only wish for him is to get through the thought that he is new and that he doesn't want to take responsibility," he said. "It is his second season now and he needs to have a good season. This is the moment to make or break, so he has to go out there and be brave. Take some chances and risks. He has the quality, so don't be afraid, Mason.”